Ahold Delhaize reports strong sales growth in the fourth quarter

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Algemeen advies 23/01/2019 07:22
· Net sales of €16.5 billion, up 3.0% at constant exchange rates
· Comparable sales* in the U.S. up 2.7%, showing continued good momentum
· The Netherlands comparable sales up 3.3%, cycling a strong fourth quarter 2017
· Ongoing operational improvements in Belgium resulted in 3.0% comparable sales growth
· CSE comparable sales* up 2.0%, with strong sales in the Czech Republic
· Net consumer online sales up 26.4% at constant exchange rates in the fourth quarter and reached €3.5 billion for the full year 2018


* Excluding gasoline sales
Zaandam, the Netherlands - January 23, 2019 - Following the introduction of our Leading Together strategy at our Capital Markets Day in November, Ahold Delhaize today announced consolidated net sales of €16.5 billion for the fourth quarter of 2018, an increase of 3.0% at constant exchange rates compared to the fourth quarter of last year.

Overall the business delivered another strong sales performance in the fourth quarter and for the full year 2018. For the full year, net sales reached €62.8 billion, up 2.5% at constant exchange rates.

Sales performance in the United States continued to show good momentum with 2.7% comparable sales growth excluding gasoline in the fourth quarter, including a slightly favorable weather impact. In our markets we saw a lower level of inflation compared to the previous quarter. Online sales growth accelerated to 12.1% at constant exchange rates, as our food eCommerce initiatives started to gain traction at each brand. Food Lion continued to benefit from the roll-out of the "Easy, Fresh and Affordable" program, now in 70% of its stores. Full year 2018 market share across our brands is expected to have increased compared to last year.

The Netherlands had a solid performance with 3.3% comparable sales growth compared to a strong fourth quarter last year, including a limited negative impact this year by the timing of New Year. Albert Heijn grew comparable sales in both supermarkets and online, albeit reporting a slightly lower market share for the full year 2018. Bol.com reported 32.3% growth in net consumer online sales in the fourth quarter, resulting in €2.1 billion net consumer online sales for the full year 2018.

In Belgium the implementation of the strategic plans to improve the operational performance of the Delhaize stores is reflected by a comparable sales growth of 3.0% for this quarter. Sales growth benefited from a positive calendar impact with one additional opening day compared to last year. Full year 2018 market share of Delhaize has increased compared to last year.

In Central and Southeastern Europe comparable sales grew by 2.0% excluding gasoline. The Czech Republic reported a very strong sales performance with successful promotions resulting in both increased transactions and basket size in supermarkets as well as in its compact hypers. In Greece, as a consequence of competitive re-openings, comparable sales growth remained under pressure but gradually improved compared to the previous quarters and with slightly positive volume growth this quarter.

Outlook
For the full year 2018, we expect underlying earnings per share from continuing operations to be at the higher end of our previous guidance of €1.50-1.60. Full year free cash flow is expected to be more than €2.0 billion, supported by further improvements in net working capital. Capital expenditure for 2018 is expected to be €1.8 billion, in line with previous guidance.

AND
Ahold Delhaize appoints Marit van Egmond as Brand President & CEO Albert Heijn

Zaandam, the Netherlands, January 23, 2019 - Ahold Delhaize today announces the appointment of Marit van Egmond as Brand President & CEO of Albert Heijn as of February 1, 2019. She will succeed Wouter Kolk, who will fully focus on his duties as CEO Ahold Delhaize Europe and Indonesia.

Marit van Egmond has more than 20 years of international retail experience, and currently serves as Executive Vice President Commerce at Albert Heijn. She began her career as a management trainee at Ahold and has held several commercial, operational and management roles within the company, including CEO of Gall&Gall. She will continue to report to Wouter Kolk.

"I am happy that Marit will take over leadership of Albert Heijn," said Wouter Kolk. "Her deep knowledge of food retail is impressive, having led winning teams, launched innovations and successfully implemented them in fast-changing environments. Next to that, she has built a sustainable network of partners and suppliers. I look forward to continue working with her and wish her all the best in her new role."

Marit van Egmond said: "It is an honor to lead Albert Heijn moving forward. I strongly believe that food plays a central role in how people live. This is key for the Albert Heijn brand with its strong heritage in food and our highly relevant position in society. Combined with the tech- and digital capabilities of Albert Heijn, we can help customers make informed choices to live a healthier and more enjoyable life. I look forward to working together with our associates, franchisees, partners and other stakeholders to continue the success of Albert Heijn."

Wouter Kolk will fully focus on his duties as CEO Ahold Delhaize Europe and Indonesia, responsible for Ahold Delhaize in all eight countries. In addition, next to own-brand expertise, he will leverage digital, eCommerce and synergy opportunities across the different markets to drive growth and create new business prospects as part of Ahold Delhaize's Leading Together strategy. He will be supported by a small team that is currently being recruited and will be announced shortly.

tijd 09.06
Ahold Delh. EUR 22,94 +48,5 ct vol. 596.000



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